Doppler sonography in neurology: A method for examining the blood supply to the brain

Making Blood Flow Visible and Audible

Doppler ultrasound is an established neurological imaging technique used to assess the blood supply to the brain.

Using ultrasound, blood flow within the arteries supplying the brain can be visualized and heard. This allows physicians to evaluate the speed and direction of blood flow and detect signs of narrowing, blockages, or other abnormalities of the blood vessels.

The examination can help diagnose and assess the risk of conditions such as stroke, impaired cerebral circulation, inflammatory vascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, certain forms of dementia, and some headache disorders.

During the examination, you may feel slight pressure as the ultrasound probe is gently moved over the skin of your neck, temples, and the back of your head. At the same time, you can hear the characteristic sounds of blood flowing through your arteries. The examination is painless, non-invasive, and does not involve any radiation exposure.